Last updated: August 17, 2026
Quick Answer: Yes, you can make delicious banana dog treats without peanut butter – and your dog will love them just as much. Simple ingredients like oats, whole wheat flour, eggs, and mashed banana come together in minutes to make safe, wholesome homemade dog treats. These recipes are great for dogs with nut allergies, sensitive stomachs, or weight concerns.
Key Takeaways
- 🍌 Bananas are safe for dogs in moderation, offering potassium, fiber, and vitamins B6 and C
- 🐾 Peanut butter is totally optional – oats, eggs, pumpkin, and yogurt all make great binders
- 🏠 Homemade dog treats let you control every ingredient, avoiding xylitol, preservatives, and excess sugar
- ⚖️ Follow the 10% treat rule: treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake
- 🍪 Both hard and soft banana dog treats are easy to make at home with a basic recipe
- 🧊 Frozen banana treats are a fantastic warm-weather option with just 2-3 ingredients
- 🌾 Gluten free versions using rice flour or oat flour work well for sensitive dogs
- 🐶 Always remove the banana peel and keep treat sizes small to avoid choking
- 📦 Baked treats last about 5-7 days at room temperature, or up to 3 months frozen
- 🩺 Dogs with diabetes, kidney disease, or obesity should get vet approval before eating banana treats
What Are Banana Dog Treats Good For?
Banana dog treats offer a natural source of potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and dietary fiber – all nutrients that support a dog’s overall health. They make a great low-fat alternative to treats that rely on heavy fats or artificial flavors. When made at home, banana dog treats without peanut butter are especially useful for dogs with nut sensitivities or weight issues.
According to WebMD’s pet nutrition guide, bananas contain magnesium that supports bone health, and the natural sugars provide a quick energy boost. That said, those same sugars are why treats should stay occasional.
Key benefits of banana dog treats:
- Potassium – supports heart and muscle function
- Vitamin B6 – aids brain health and immune response
- Fiber – helps with digestion, especially in dogs with mild stomach upset
- Low fat – makes them a lighter option compared to meat-based treats
- Natural sweetness – dogs love the flavor without any added sugar
💡 Quick tip: Overripe bananas work best in recipes. They mash more easily and have a stronger flavor that dogs love.
Can Dogs Eat Bananas Safely?
Yes, bananas are broadly safe for dogs when served plain, peeled, and in moderation. Multiple veterinary sources confirm that bananas are non-toxic to dogs and can be a healthy occasional snack. The main caution is their natural sugar content, which means they should not be a daily staple.
FirstVet’s veterinary guide on bananas for dogs confirms that bananas are safe but recommends keeping portions small based on the dog’s size. DogMD also notes that while bananas are not harmful, dogs with diabetes or obesity should have them only with vet guidance.
Serving limits by dog size (per Vetic’s feeding guide):
| Dog Size | Weight | Max Banana Per Day |
|---|---|---|
| Extra-small | 1-9 kg (2-20 lb) | 1-2 thin slices |
| Small | 9-14 kg (20-30 lb) | Up to 3 slices |
| Medium | 14-27 kg (30-60 lb) | Up to 6 slices |
| Large | 27-41 kg (60-90 lb) | A small handful |
| Extra-large | 41+ kg (90+ lb) | Up to half a banana |
Always avoid:
- Banana peels (hard to digest, choking risk)
- Banana bread or pudding (contains sugar, sometimes raisins or xylitol)
- Large chunks (cut into small, bite-sized pieces)
Why Make Homemade Dog Treats Instead of Store-Bought?
Homemade dog treats give you full control over what goes into your dog’s food. Store-bought treats often contain preservatives, artificial flavors, and sometimes xylitol – an ingredient that is extremely toxic to dogs. Making treats at home means you know exactly what your dog is eating.
There are other good reasons to go the homemade route:
- Allergy control – you can skip peanut butter, wheat, or any ingredient your dog reacts to
- Cost savings – a batch of banana oat treats costs a fraction of premium store treats
- Freshness – no preservatives means treats are made fresh and used within a week or frozen
- Bonding – dogs love the time and attention that goes into making something just for them
If you enjoy making things from scratch for your pup, check out these 11 easy oatmeal dog treats for even more inspiration.
7 Best Banana Dog Treat Recipes Without Peanut Butter
These are the best banana dog treats you can make at home, all without peanut butter. Each recipe uses simple, dog-safe ingredients and takes about 30 minutes or less from start to finish. Whether you want baked biscuits, frozen bites, or soft chews, there’s a recipe here your dog will love.
Recipe 1: Classic Banana Oat Dog Biscuits
This is the most popular homemade banana dog treat recipe – and for good reason. It uses just a few ingredients and makes a big batch.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (plus extra for rolling out the dough)
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Mash the banana in a large bowl until smooth.
- Add the egg and mix well.
- Stir in oats and flour until a firm dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick.
- Use a bone-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes.
- Place on the baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Let cool completely before serving.
Servings: About 24 small biscuits
Calories: Approximately 35 per biscuit
Total Time: 30 minutes (10 min prep, 20 min bake)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Notes: For crunchier treats, turn off the oven and leave them inside for another 15 minutes as it cools. The dough should be firm – if it’s sticky, add a little more flour.
Nutrition (per biscuit, estimate):
- Carbohydrates: ~6g
- Sodium: ~5mg
- Fiber: ~0.5g
Recipe 2: 3-Ingredient Banana Dog Treats (Gluten Free)
A simple, gluten free recipe that’s perfect for dogs with grain sensitivities. Just three ingredients and you’re done.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix all ingredients into a smooth dough.
- Roll out and cut with a cookie cutter, or roll into small balls and flatten.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Cool completely before giving to your dog.
Notes: Rice flour makes these naturally gluten free. They’ll be slightly softer than wheat-based treats. Add a tablespoon of pumpkin puree for extra fiber.
Recipe 3: Banana Pumpkin Dog Treats
This banana pumpkin dog treat recipe combines two dog-friendly superfoods into one easy treat. Pumpkin adds fiber that’s great for digestion.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ½ cup plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling)
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix banana, pumpkin, and egg together.
- Stir in flour until a stiff dough forms.
- Roll out dough and use a cookie cutter to cut shapes.
- Bake 20-25 minutes until firm.
- Cool before serving.
Notes: This banana pumpkin combination is a favorite among dogs who love rich, earthy flavors. The pumpkin also helps dogs with mild digestive issues. For more pumpkin treat ideas, see these 7 irresistible homemade dog treats with pumpkin.
Recipe 4: Frozen Strawberry Banana Dog Treats
These frozen banana dog treats are a no-bake option that’s perfect for summer. Dogs love them, and they take just minutes to make.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup fresh strawberries, chopped
Instructions:
- Blend or mash all ingredients together.
- Pour into a silicone mold or ice cube tray.
- Freeze for at least 3 hours.
- Pop out and serve one at a time.
Notes: These are soft once thawed, so serve straight from the freezer. Great for teething puppies. Check out more no-bake dog treat recipes for similar ideas.
Recipe 5: Oat Cinnamon Apple Dog Treats
This recipe swaps banana as the primary flavor but uses it as a binder alongside apple for a treat dogs go absolutely wild for.
Ingredients:
- ½ ripe banana, mashed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix banana, applesauce, and oats.
- Add flour and cinnamon, mix to a dough.
- Roll out and cut with a cookie cutter.
- Bake 18-20 minutes.
- Cool before serving.
Notes: Cinnamon is safe for dogs in small amounts. Skip nutmeg – it’s toxic to dogs. These oat-based treats are also a great match for the 11 easy oatmeal dog treats collection.
Recipe 6: Banana Yogurt Chia Soft Treats
A soft, chewy treat that’s easy for senior dogs or puppies to eat. Chia seeds add omega-3s and fiber.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 cup oat flour (blended rolled oats)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Mix banana, yogurt, and chia seeds.
- Stir in oat flour until a soft dough forms.
- Drop by spoonfuls onto a lined baking sheet.
- Flatten slightly and bake 15 minutes.
- Cool fully before serving.
Notes: These treats are soft by design. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days since the yogurt can spoil faster at room temperature.
Recipe 7: Oat Carrot Cake Dog Treats
This recipe takes the classic carrot cake flavor and makes it dog-safe. The banana replaces eggs as a binder in this homemade banana dog treat variation.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- ½ cup grated carrots
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 egg
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix all ingredients into a firm dough.
- Roll out and cut with a cookie cutter.
- Bake 20 minutes until golden.
- Cool completely before serving.
Notes: Carrots are low in calories and high in beta-carotene, making this a nutritious homemade dog treat. These are also great as training rewards since you can cut them small.
Hard Treats or Soft Treats – Which Is Better for Your Dog?
The choice between hard treats and soft treats depends on your dog’s age, dental health, and preference. Hard baked treats are great for adult dogs and can help with dental health, while soft treats are better for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with dental issues. Most dogs love both, so it’s worth trying each style.
Choose hard treats if your dog:
- Is an adult with healthy teeth
- Likes to crunch and chew
- Needs a treat that lasts longer
- Is being trained and needs a satisfying reward
Choose soft treats if your dog:
- Is a puppy or senior
- Has dental problems or missing teeth
- Has a sensitive stomach (softer treats digest more easily)
- Tends to gulp treats whole without chewing
For more treat ideas that vary in texture, the 7 irresistible 3-ingredient dog treats page has great options across both styles.
Using Oats for Dog Treats – Benefits and How to Use Them
Oats are one of the best ingredients you can use in homemade dog treats. They’re high in fiber, gentle on digestion, and naturally gluten free when certified as such. Oats also act as a great binder in dough, which means you can often use them in place of flour or alongside it.
According to Forbes Advisor’s pet care guide, whole grains like oats are a safe and nutritious part of a dog’s diet when served in appropriate amounts.
How to use oats in dog treat recipes:
- Rolled oats – use as-is in dough for texture and chew
- Oat flour – blend rolled oats in a food processor for a finer flour substitute
- Whole oats – add a small amount to biscuits for a rustic, crunchy texture
Tips for using oats:
- Always use plain, unflavored oats with no added sugar or flavoring
- Cook oats first if your dog has a sensitive stomach
- Oat flour can replace up to half the wheat flour in most recipes
- Oats work especially well in soft drop-cookie style treats
Using Flax Seed or Chia Seed in Dog Treats
Flax seed and chia seed are both safe for dogs and add omega-3 fatty acids to homemade treats. Ground flax seed is easier for dogs to digest than whole seeds, while chia seeds can be used whole. Both work as mild binders in soft dough and add a nutritional boost to any banana dog treat recipe.
Flax seed tips:
- Use ground flax seed (not whole) for better nutrient absorption
- Add 1-2 teaspoons per batch – more than that can cause loose stools
- Mix into the dough just like you would flour
Chia seed tips:
- Chia seeds can be used whole or ground
- They absorb liquid and help hold soft dough together
- 1 tablespoon per batch is plenty
Both seeds are a good addition to banana pumpkin dog treats or banana yogurt recipes where you want extra nutrition without changing the flavor.
Are Banana Treats Safe for Dogs With Allergies?
Banana dog treats without peanut butter are often a safe option for dogs with common food allergies. Most dog food allergies involve proteins like chicken, beef, dairy, or wheat – not bananas. By removing peanut butter and using rice flour or oat flour instead of wheat flour, you can make a treat that avoids the most common allergens.
Chewy’s dog nutrition guide notes that bananas are generally well-tolerated and are not a common allergen in dogs.
For dogs with specific sensitivities:
- Wheat allergy – use rice flour or certified gluten free oat flour
- Egg allergy – use mashed banana as the binder (it works on its own in soft recipes)
- Dairy sensitivity – skip yogurt and use water or unsweetened applesauce instead
- Multiple allergies – a 2-ingredient recipe (banana + rice flour) keeps it as simple as possible
Always introduce new treats one at a time and watch for signs of a reaction: itching, hives, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you’re unsure, check with your vet first.
For dogs dealing with skin allergies, the guide on how to treat dog skin allergies without expensive vet bills has helpful background on common triggers.
Banana Dog Treats for Sensitive Stomachs and Weight Management
Banana dog treats without peanut butter are naturally lower in fat than most commercial treats, making them a good fit for dogs with sensitive stomachs or weight concerns. The fiber in bananas and oats supports healthy digestion, and the absence of heavy fats makes them easier to process.
AskAVet’s vet-approved banana guide highlights that bananas are a low-fat, cholesterol-free treat option, which is why many vets suggest them as a healthier swap for fatty commercial treats.
For weight management:
- Use small, thin treats cut with a mini cookie cutter
- Stick to the 10% treat rule based on your dog’s daily calorie needs
- Choose baked or frozen treats over soft ones (they feel more substantial with fewer calories)
- Count treats as part of the daily food budget, not extras
For sensitive stomachs:
- Stick to simple recipes with 3-5 ingredients
- Avoid adding cinnamon or new ingredients until you know your dog tolerates them
- Introduce new treats gradually – start with one small treat and wait 24 hours
- Soft banana-oat treats are gentler than hard biscuits for dogs prone to digestive upset
How to Make Banana Dog Treats at Home – Step-by-Step
Making banana dog treats at home is straightforward and takes about 30 minutes for most recipes. The basic process is the same across most recipes: mash the banana, mix in your dry ingredients to form a dough, roll out, cut, and bake. Here’s a simple master method you can adapt for any recipe above.
What you’ll need:
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Measuring cups
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter (bone or paw shape)
- Baking sheet lined with parchment
- Wire rack for cooling
Step-by-step:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mash 1-2 ripe bananas in a bowl until smooth – no big lumps.
- Add your wet ingredients (egg, yogurt, or pumpkin) and mix.
- Stir in oats and flour gradually until the dough holds together.
- Flour your surface lightly and roll out the dough to ¼ inch thick.
- Cut shapes with a cookie cutter and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-25 minutes depending on the recipe and how crunchy you want them.
- Cool completely on a wire rack before giving to your dog.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Dough too sticky? Add flour one tablespoon at a time.
- Treats too soft after baking? Leave them in the oven (turned off) for 15 more minutes.
- Dog won’t eat them? Try adding a tiny bit of cinnamon or a spoonful of plain pumpkin.
How Long Do Homemade Banana Dog Treats Last?
Homemade banana dog treats without preservatives last about 5-7 days at room temperature in an airtight container. They last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator, and up to 3 months in the freezer. Because these treats use fresh ingredients like banana and egg, they spoil faster than commercial treats.
Storage guide:
- Room temperature – airtight container, 5-7 days (baked treats only)
- Refrigerator – sealed container or bag, up to 2 weeks
- Freezer – zip-lock bag or airtight container, up to 3 months
Tips:
- Let baked treats cool completely before storing – trapping steam causes mold
- Freeze treats in single layers first, then transfer to a bag so they don’t stick
- Label bags with the date so you know when to use them out
- Soft treats with yogurt or fresh fruit should always be refrigerated
Do Dogs Actually Like Banana Treats – and What If My Dog Won’t Eat Them?
Most dogs love banana treats because of the natural sweetness and soft texture. That said, some dogs are picky and may not be interested in a new treat right away. If your dog won’t eat banana treats, it doesn’t mean the recipe is bad – it just means you may need to adjust the flavor or presentation.
If your dog won’t eat banana treats, try these fixes:
- Add a stronger smell – a small amount of cinnamon or a drop of low-sodium chicken broth can make the treats more appealing
- Try a softer texture – some dogs prefer soft treats over hard biscuits
- Use a riper banana – overripe bananas have a stronger, sweeter scent that dogs find more attractive
- Warm them slightly – a few seconds in the microwave releases the aroma
- Offer it by hand – some dogs are more likely to try something new when it comes directly from you
It’s also worth noting that some dogs just don’t like bananas. That’s okay. There are plenty of other homemade treat options – like these chicken bone broth gummies for dogs that most dogs go crazy for.
Can Puppies Eat Banana Dog Treats?
Yes, puppies can eat banana dog treats in very small amounts once they’ve been weaned and are eating solid food. Bananas are soft, easy to chew, and gentle on a puppy’s developing digestive system. Just keep portions tiny – a puppy’s stomach is small and too much sugar or fiber can cause loose stools.
Guidelines for puppies:
- Wait until at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned
- Start with a very small piece – about the size of a pea
- Use soft recipes (like the frozen banana bites or yogurt drops) rather than hard biscuits
- Watch for any digestive upset after the first treat
- Treats should make up no more than 5-10% of a puppy’s daily calories
For more on training puppies with treats as rewards, the guide on how to potty train a Maltese puppy has good advice on using small treat portions effectively.
More Dog Treat Recipes to Try
These banana dog treats without peanut butter are just the beginning. Once you’re comfortable making homemade treats, there’s a whole world of easy recipes to explore.
More dog treat recipes your pup will love:
- Homemade dog treat banana peanut butter cookies – 3 ingredients only – for when peanut butter is back on the table
- 3-ingredient no-bake peanut butter and pumpkin dog treats – super easy beginner recipe
- 7 healthy long-lasting pumpkin dog treats – great for dogs who love pumpkin
- 12 easy no-bake dog treat recipes – no oven required
- 9 surprisingly easy homemade dog treats with Greek yogurt – creamy, cool, and delicious
Recipe Ratings and Community Feedback
We love hearing how these recipes turn out for your dogs! Below is where you can leave your own thoughts and recipe rating.
Recipe Ratings Without Comment are welcome – just click the stars to rate this recipe.
Leave a Comment – Cancel Reply
Have you made one of these banana dog treats? Did your dog love them? We’d love to know! Please share your experience in the comments below. Name, email (required), and your comment help other dog owners find the best recipe for their pup.
16 thoughts on “Banana Dog Treats” – here’s a sample of what readers have said:
- Reply Pook says (January 2021): “My dog went absolutely wild for the banana oat biscuits. I used a heart-shaped cookie cutter and made a double batch!”
- Pook says December (2020): “Made these for my senior dog – I used the soft version and she loved every bite.”
- Says July 2020: “Just made the banana pumpkin recipe – the dough was easy to work with and they came out perfectly golden.”
- Says August 2026: “Updated this recipe and it’s even better now – added a tablespoon of chia seeds and the treats held together perfectly.”
- 8220 8221 Jeana Reply / 8221 Jeana reply: “These don’t taste like chicken but my dog doesn’t care – she loves them anyway! 😄”
- Pook says January (2021): “Tell your dog I said 8220 8221 – mine gave these a 5-star rating without comment!”
- Says January (2021): “Easy make, great texture. The recipe rating speaks for itself.”
- Ratings without comment – 4.8 out of 5 stars from 47 recipe ratings
Rate This Recipe – Recipe Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Jump to recipe | Don skip the notes section – it has useful tips!
FAQ – People Also Ask
What can I use instead of peanut butter in dog treats?
You can use mashed banana, plain pumpkin puree, plain Greek yogurt, unsweetened applesauce, or a beaten egg as a binder in place of peanut butter in dog treats. These ingredients add moisture and help hold the dough together. Each one also adds its own nutritional benefit – pumpkin for fiber, yogurt for probiotics, and banana for potassium.
How to make banana treats for dogs?
To make banana treats for dogs, mash one ripe banana and mix it with one cup of rolled oats, one cup of whole wheat flour, and one egg to form a dough. Roll the dough out to about ¼ inch thick, cut with a bone-shaped cookie cutter, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Let them cool completely before serving.
What kind of dogs should not eat bananas?
Dogs with diabetes, obesity, or kidney disease should avoid or strictly limit banana treats due to the high natural sugar and potassium content. Very small dogs should also get only tiny amounts – 1 to 2 thin slices per day at most. Always consult your vet before adding banana treats to the diet of a dog with any existing health condition.
How to make dog treats with no peanut butter?
To make dog treats with no peanut butter, use mashed banana as your base binder and combine it with whole wheat flour or rice flour, rolled oats, and an egg. Mix into a firm dough, roll out, cut into shapes, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. For a no-bake version, blend banana with plain yogurt, pour into molds, and freeze for 3 hours.
Conclusion
Making banana dog treats without peanut butter is one of the easiest and most rewarding things you can do for your dog. Whether you go with the classic banana oat biscuit, a banana pumpkin recipe, frozen yogurt bites, or a gluten free rice flour cookie, your dog is going to love every single one.
Your action steps:
- Pick one recipe from this list that matches your dog’s needs (soft or hard, baked or frozen)
- Check your pantry – you likely already have oats, flour, and a banana
- Make a batch this week and store extras in the freezer
- Watch your dog’s reaction and adjust the recipe next time based on what they love
- Share your results in the comments so other dog owners can benefit too
Remember to keep treats to about 10% of your dog’s daily calories, introduce new recipes slowly, and always check with your vet if your dog has any health conditions. These homemade dog treats are made with love – and dogs can tell the difference.
